Wildlife and disease
together we will put this knowledge to good use

Welcome to the Dutch Wildlife Health Centre

It is important to keep in mind that bird flu is not found in all bird species and that there are multiple explanations for suspicious behaviour in birds. When a bird is sick, it doesn’t always have to be bird flu. However, it remains important to report animals for research into bird flu and other possible causes of death. Not all reported animals can be collected. We are closely monitoring the situation.

Reporting guide for suspected bird flu

The purpose of the Dutch Wildlife Health Centre is to enhance knowledge and expertise in wildlife health in the Netherlands. This will serve to provide scientifically based information for political and practical decisions concerning public health, wild and domestic animal health, and nature conservation issues.

On our website you can find information about the sorts of disease found in wildlife in the Netherlands and abroad by searching in the disease or species pages.

You can report finding wildlife cadavers via the submission form on our website. For microscopic examination of these animals it is essential that the cadavers are in a fresh state i.e. not dead for more than one day; cadavers should not be frozen. It is therefore preferable to report your findings as soon as possible and to keep the cadaver in a cool (not frozen) place until it can be collected. After submitting your form you will be contacted by the DWHC who will advise you on how to package the cadaver and arrange collection of the package from your home or place of work.

More information about submitting a cadaver is available in the frequently asked questions.

DWHC ‘focus species’ of 2025: Peregrine Falcon and Common Kestrel

Picture Peregrine Falcon (left): Vincent van Zalingepicture Common Kestrel (right): Roy Slaterus (Sovon)

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DWHC focus species of 2025: Peregrine Falcon and Common Kestrel

The common Kestrel and the Peregrine Falcon are the ‘DWHC focus animals’ of 2025. Our goal is to investigate more Common Kestrels and Peregrine Falcons on their cause of death. Common Kestrels and Peregrine Falcons are birds of prey that are high up in the food chain. By eating prey, they can also become infected
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